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When a family is increasing in size or has a lifestyle that requires them to carry a lot of stuff, a minivan is no-doubt needed to satisfy these demands. However, picking up a minivan from dealership is not as easy as picking up a compact sedan because there are more decisions and constraints to worry about. These considerations include, but are not limited to: What features do I need to satisfy everyone whom will be riding with me? Is it worth it to spend more on the bigger vehicle? How long do I plan on keeping the car?

One of the most notable pieces of equipment is the Uconnect hard-drive-based navigation and entertainment system, which does pretty much everything besides driving. It features a Garmin navigation and voice-command system with a 30GB hard drive to store all kinds of digital data such as music and system updates. With subscription, Uconnect features the Web Mobile apps to make the Caravan R/T a Wi-Fi hot spot. In addition, the Caravan R/T is equipped with the rear-seat DVD entertainment, satellite radio, CD/MP3 auxiliary connection, and the Infinity 506-watt 9-speaker audio upgrade. With all of this over-powered equipment, there is no way to get bored on either short or long distance road-trip.

Under the Hood

The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 283 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. This class-leading power output is more than enough to carry eight persons with full cargo and have a trailer behind. My uncle has a old Caravan base model and it is capable of bringing his family of four and my family of three to a one-day Napa wine tour without a single problem.

Most Affordable Base Price

The Dodge Grand Caravan is the America’s Best Selling Minivan for its lowest base price and highest horse-power among its competitors. The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan basic trim model has a MSRP starting under $22,000 plus tax and fees, which is more affordable than a Honda Accord EX or Toyota Camry LE. In comparison, the Toyota Sienna V6 costs about $4,000 more, while the entry-level Honda Odyssey will cost an additional $7,000. The MSRP of the fully equipped R/T model will climb up to $38,000 plus tax and fees, which brings the price difference closer for the comparable models. Even though the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan has a lower base price, it does not retain the resale value as well as the Odyssey and the Sienna.

Overall Evaluation

The Dodge Grand Caravan has been one of the most practical minivans in the United States and they are basically everywhere around the street. The Caravan may not have a fancy exterior appearance, but its low base price, high power output, and countless convenience features make this minivan an excellent investment for any household and business owner. If you are looking for a minivan and want to buy American, look no further and test drive one today.